Cuban actress Ana de Armas is facing a wave of criticism on social media following the posting of a trailer for her upcoming film "Ballerina" on the official Instagram account of the movie.
What was intended to be a promotional campaign quickly turned into a platform for targeted attacks against the actress, primarily from the Cuban community, which accuses her of "political indifference" and being "complicit with the dictatorship" due to her relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta, the stepson of Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Following the revelation of her relationship with Anido Cuesta, the actress restricted comments on her Instagram account, allowing this feature only on a post promoting her collaboration with Louis Vuitton.
In this way, Lis Cuesta Peraza's daughter-in-law—the regime's impartial Twitter user—sought to address the overwhelming criticism she has been receiving due to her connection with Anido Cuesta and their romantic outings in Madrid, which were covered by ¡HOLA! magazine, where she was also seen accompanied by prominent lawyers from the Cuban dictatorial regime.
Outpouring of criticism on social media
The post about "Ballerina," announcing the cast's participation in Comic-Con Experience in Brazil, was flooded with negative comments. Many users criticized Ana de Armas for her apparent detachment regarding the crisis in Cuba and her connection to Anido Cuesta.
"Down with the dictatorship! You are an accomplice to the hell that Cubans are living, considering that your own brother was a victim," a user on Instagram told her.
"You betrayed your people, Ana... No wonder you never took the opportunity to ask for freedom for your country... But the saddest part is that you trampled on your brother, who had to flee from that disgusting dictatorship... May God forgive you, because I believe your people no longer will," expressed an internet user.
"Down with the Cuban dictatorship of which you are an accomplice! All your money cannot cleanse the sadness of your soul!" commented the Cuban activist and doctor Lucio Enríquez Nodarse.
"It's not a movie; it's the life of her boyfriend's family. 'A communist story,' criticized another social media user."
Relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta: The center of the controversy.
The origin of this discomfort lies in Ana de Armas's romantic relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta, stepson of Díaz-Canel and advisor to his discredited government. The romance was confirmed after photos of the couple strolling and shopping in Madrid were published, showing them in a loving demeanor.
Manuel Anido is the son of Lis Cuesta, the wife of Díaz-Canel, and he has accompanied the leader to various diplomatic events, such as visits to the Vatican and the United Arab Emirates. His closeness to the political power in Cuba and his role in the totalitarian regime make him a controversial figure among exiled Cubans and critics of the regime.
The images of the couple in luxury stores in Madrid sparked even more outrage, due to the contrast between their lifestyle and the difficult economic situation in Cuba, characterized by food shortages and constant blackouts.
In addition to the discomfort of her Cuban audience, the publication on social media by Ana de Armas showcasing gifts from Louis Vuitton sparked indignation, seen as a provocation and a lack of sensitivity to the situation in Cuba.
In light of the barriers set up by the actress on her social media, the Instagram account for "Ballerina" became a forum to express that discontent. "She mocks the Cuban people. How low do you have to stoop to make fun of your own people while there are blackouts and shortages on the island?" remarked a Cuban.
Media silence and public reaction
So far, neither Ana de Armas nor Manuel Anido Cuesta have made any public statements regarding their relationship or the controversy that has arisen on social media.
The actress, known for keeping her personal life private, has maintained absolute silence on her digital platforms since her romance was revealed.
However, their discretion has not quelled the scandal. The relationship between De Armas and Anido Cuesta has become a symbol of what many perceive as a lack of sensitivity towards the humanitarian crisis facing Cuba.
The actress is now seen by some as a "complicit of the regime," according to numerous messages on social media and reports from independent Cuban media.
The controversy has sparked a public debate about the role of public figures in political matters and their social responsibility, especially concerning personalities associated with authoritarian regimes.
With the release of "Ballerina" still several months away, it remains to be seen whether Ana de Armas will manage to weather this media storm or if her public image will continue to deteriorate in the eyes of thousands of dissatisfied Cubans.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ana de Armas's Controversial Relationship
Why is Ana de Armas being criticized for her relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta?
Ana de Armas has faced criticism for her relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta because he is the stepson of Miguel Díaz-Canel, the president of Cuba, and an advisor to his government. This connection has sparked outrage among Cubans, who believe that the actress is linked to the regime that causes suffering to their people.
How has Ana de Armas reacted to the criticism on social media?
Ana de Armas has decided to limit comments on her Instagram account following the scandal involving her relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta. The actress has not made any public statements on the matter, remaining silent on her digital platforms, which has heightened the criticism directed at her.
What do Cubans think about the romance between Ana de Armas and Manuel Anido Cuesta?
The relationship between Ana de Armas and Manuel Anido Cuesta has been widely criticized by Cubans, who view it as a betrayal of the values of freedom they uphold outside the island. However, there are also some voices defending the actress's right to her privacy and personal decisions, although these opinions are in the minority.
What impact does this controversy have on Ana de Armas's career?
Ana de Armas's public image could be impacted by criticism regarding her relationship with a figure associated with the Cuban regime. This situation has sparked a debate about the role of public figures in political issues and their social responsibility, which could affect how she is perceived by the public and the film industry.
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